The nutrition-brain connection has been researched extensively, and researchers have identified key chemical compounds as well as certain nutrients that are required for human brain function. For example, the U.S. Department of Agriculture states that vitamin B12 and iron deficiencies can lead to impaired cognitive function. Thus, careful attention to diet is essential to restore brain nutrition, and adding simple shakes or smoothies is a quick way to do it.
Step 1
Make shakes using antioxidant-rich foods such as blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, strawberries, raspberries, oranges, red grapes, cherries and kiwis. Studies at Tufts University show that the intake of antioxidants from fruits and vegetables can significantly reduce the risk of developing cognitive impairment.
Step 2
Make fruit smoothies with almond milk to add the necessary protein for brain power. Dr. Daniel Amen, of the Amen Clinics, put together a list of 50 top brain foods. Of course the list is thick with fruits and vegetables, but almonds and almond milk are right there at the top.
Step 3
Add avocados, an excellent brain food that can be used in shakes too. Avocados add the much-needed good fat that is essential for brain nutrition, and contribute thickness to a fruit shake. Another great source of good fat for the brain is coconut milk--try it as a base for a shake.
Step 4
Throw in some bananas, soy or yogurt. Try freezing bananas for extra thick shakes, or try soy milk instead of almond milk. Toss in some yogurt to thicken and add calcium to your shake.
Step 5
Add water. Since the brain is 80 percent water, water should be a part of most of your nutritional brain shakes. If a shake is too thick, use water to thin it out. Or make a green tea smoothie by brewing some green tea, letting it cool, and whipping it up with some ice and a bit of honey or stevia. Green tea is on Dr. Amen's list of top 50 brain foods.
Things You'll Need
- Fruits and vegetables
- Blender
- Ice
- Almond, soy and coconut milks
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